For many years it almost seemed that North Sydney was becoming a business backwater. Major employers, including Optus, had deserted the area and the North Sydney CBD was a ghost town during the weekend.
But that's all changing...and very rapidly. Just take a look at some of the developments listed below. These changes are going to dramatically alter the business environment for the better. The question is, will your business be in a position to benefit from these advances?
Business Influx
Businesses are flocking back to North Sydney.
Vodafone have already moved their home to the recently opened 177 Pacific Highway complex, which accommodates over 2,500 personnel.
Channel Nine have just committed to relocating their HQ into the new 39 story, Denison Street Tower.
Smart new dining and retail businesses, such as The Naked Duck restaurant, are being established to service the growing business and residential community.
Commercial Developments
In addition to the two new complexes mentioned above, the following developments are also in progress:
A 44 level mixed-use tower is under construction at 100 Mount Street.
The redevelopment of Northpoint which will include a 188 room hotel and retail complex.
A 108 room hotel at 88 Walker Street.
A council masterplan for the redevelopment of the Ward Street area.
The Victoria Cross Metro Station, which while some way off is already influencing business thinking.
Residential Developments
Many older style office buildings in the CBD area are in the process of being converted into residential apartment complexes. More than 2000 units are expected to come onto the market over a 24 month period. Overall North Sydney has a projected population growth of 25%, with many of these new North Sydney residents being in the high disposable income bracket.
The above illustration was recently published by North Sydney Council, showing the numerous developments taking place in the CBD. This unprecedented level of activity opens up terrific opportunities for a very wide range of businesses. And that's exactly why you will be wanting to grow your connections in North Sydney.
Three ways to get your networking skates on are:
North Sydney Business Connections - an informal but well connected monthly networking group. You can find details on their next event here: http://bit.ly/NorthSydney
Business Builders Group - ideal if you want to build stronger business relationships, whilst also benefiting from learning and collaboration opportunities. Their new North Sydney chapter is opening shortly. Register your interest here: http://bit.ly/BBGNorthSydney
North Sydney Innovation Network - do you want to network with the growing community of innovation related businesses in North Sydney? Then check out this substantial Meetup group: https://www.meetup.com/NorthSydneyInnovation
Don't wait for the metro to arrive (and miss the bus). Start building your opportunities in North Sydney right now.